- GAMSTOP is free and covers all UK-licensed online gambling sites.
- You can choose 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
- Exclusions cannot be cancelled early.
How GAMSTOP works
Register with your personal details and choose an exclusion period. Every gambling site licensed in Great Britain must check GAMSTOP and block you from opening or using an account for the whole period.
How to register
- Visit gamstop.co.uk.
- Enter your details, including any previous addresses and email addresses you have used.
- Choose 6 months, 1 year or 5 years.
- Confirm your registration.
What happens when it ends?
Your exclusion stays in place until you actively ask to remove it after the period ends. It does not lapse automatically.
Other ways to block gambling
- Bank gambling blocks in your banking app.
- Blocking software on your devices.
- Casino-level self-exclusion and time-outs.
See our responsible gambling page for support.
Avoid "not on GAMSTOP" casinos
Worried about someone else?
GAMSTOP registration must be done by the person who wants to exclude, but family and friends can get support from GamCare and the National Gambling Helpline on 0808 8020 133.
GAMSTOP vs casino self-exclusion
Casino self-exclusion blocks you from one operator; GAMSTOP blocks you from every UK-licensed online gambling site at once. Many people use both.
What GAMSTOP covers – and what it doesn't
GAMSTOP covers online casinos, betting, bingo and other gambling websites and apps licensed in Great Britain. It does not cover betting shops, land-based casinos, arcades or the National Lottery, and it cannot block unlicensed overseas sites – which is why bank gambling blocks and blocking software are useful extra layers.
How long does GAMSTOP take to work?
Registration takes a few minutes, and it can take up to 24 hours for your exclusion to become fully effective across all operators. Close any open accounts and log out of gambling apps straight away.
Support after self-exclusion
Self-exclusion works best alongside support. GamCare offers free counselling and treatment, Gamblers Anonymous runs peer support meetings across the UK, and the NHS runs specialist gambling clinics for people with more serious problems. Talking to friends and family can also help.
Tips if you have self-excluded
- Unsubscribe from gambling marketing emails and texts.
- Turn on gambling blocks in your banking app.
- Install blocking software on all your devices.
- Avoid sites advertised as "not on GAMSTOP".
GAMSTOP at a glance
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Periods | 6 months, 1 year or 5 years |
| Covers | UK-licensed online gambling sites and apps |
| Can I end it early? | No |
| Ends automatically? | No – you must ask to remove it after the period ends |
How casinos check GAMSTOP
Licensed operators check new and existing customers against the GAMSTOP register using details such as name, date of birth, address and email. That is why GAMSTOP asks for previous addresses and email addresses – it helps make sure you are matched wherever you try to sign up.
Frequently asked questions
Is GAMSTOP free?
Yes, completely free.
Can I cancel GAMSTOP early?
No – your exclusion runs for the full period you choose.
Does GAMSTOP cover land-based betting shops?
No – it covers online gambling licensed in Great Britain.
How long does GAMSTOP take to start working?
It can take up to 24 hours to become fully effective.